Honestly I can't remember the exact year that in Georgia when agency changed. One day everyone was an agent or a sub-agent of the seller and buyers just had to figure it out on their own with no help from an agent. The next day we were representing buyers. Frankly I loved it. I love working with buyers. And I loved that I was allowed to share my knowledge, experience and advice with buyers. And I loved the fact that I no longer had to allow sub-agency by other agents for my sellers when clearly it was difficult for them to be loyal to my sellers while having a relationship with the buyers.

It was 20+ years ago.

So imagine my surprise and dismay when I get an offer from another firm on my listing where no one is representing the buyer. I of course in that deal have only loyalty to my seller. But somewhere in my heart I feel bad for the buyers. I have to wonder if they really KNOW they are unrepresented. I have to wonder if they think they are.

Last year I got a call from a buyer asking a question for me to ask my seller after a closing. It was a simple question and I certainly didn't mind getting in touch with my seller and finding out the tid bit of house information for the new owner. But when the buyer told me the agent who wrote the offer said "that's not something I'll do" I was shocked. The buyer was angry "his" agent wasn't helping him get this information after the fact. The truth was he didn't have an agent. Of course the box was marked that the agent did NOT represent the buyer. I'm not sure it was explained to the buyer and I'm not sure he read the contract before he signed it either.

So buyers, before you decide on an agent why not ask them if they are going to actually work FOR you? If they are going to put your interests above their own. Are they going to work to find you a house? Are they going to help you get the house at the best possible price? Are they sending you to the best lender? Are they advising on who to close the transaction?

As a buyer, you really should have someone on your side. JUST on your side. Hire an agent who is willing to put your needs above theirs. An agent who cares about your interests. At Lane Realty, we represent buyers. We don't expect you to go it alone in the home buying process. Give us a call to have experience and knowledge on YOUR side for your home search and buying experience.